Patio or decking — it is one of the most common questions we get from Hampshire and Dorset homeowners planning an outdoor improvement. Both options have real strengths, and the right choice depends on your garden's levels, your budget and the look you are going for.
The Case for a Patio
A patio in natural stone or porcelain is durable, low-maintenance and adds lasting value to a property. It suits flat or gently sloping gardens and can be laid to any shape. Porcelain in particular requires very little upkeep and looks excellent for decades.
- Lifespan: 20–30+ years with minimal maintenance
- Best for: flat or moderately sloped gardens
- Materials: porcelain, natural sandstone, limestone, granite
- Typical cost in Hampshire: £80–£150 per m² installed
The Case for Decking
Decking is the better solution where a garden is significantly sloped — it can be built level over an uneven site far more cost-effectively than earthworks and paving. Composite decking in particular is extremely low-maintenance and looks good for many years.
- Best for: sloping gardens, raised outdoor rooms
- Materials: pressure-treated timber, composite boards
- Composite lifespan: 25+ years with minimal maintenance
- Timber lifespan: 10–15 years with annual treatment
Making the Decision
For most flat Hampshire gardens, a patio offers better long-term value. For sloping plots or where you want a raised, elevated outdoor space, decking is often the more practical and cost-effective choice. Many of our projects combine both — a patio near the house with a raised decked area beyond.
A&T Landscapes installs patios and decking across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire. Call 07735 916029 for a free site visit and quote.